Emmanuel OchayiPoverty in Nigeria is not just about the lack of food, shelter, or clothing. It is about the deep inequalities in education, employment, and gender opportunities. While a few Nigerians live in extreme wealth, millions struggle daily. The recent Oxfam report highlights that over 133 million Nigerians face hunger while a small number of billionaires hold immense wealth.
For many Nigerians, poverty means an inability to access quality education, a lack of healthcare, and limited opportunities to break the cycle of deprivation. It is a situation that demands urgent attention from both the government and private sector.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Realities of Poverty Beyond Material Needs
In Lagos, Chika Okafor, a 29-year-old university graduate who spends his days selling phone accessories at Canoe, market at Ajao Estate. He says, “I graduated four years ago, but there are no jobs. Employers want experience, but how do we get experience when nobody is willing to hire us? I work in the market because I have to survive.”
For many young Nigerians, education is no longer the pathway to a better life. The rising cost of tuition and the poor quality of education leave many with certificates but no skills. In the same city, Grace Chukwuka, a mother of three, struggles with providing basic education for her children. “Public schools are free, but what is the quality? Teachers are not motivated, and classrooms are overcrowded. My husband and I do everything to put our children in a better school, but it is difficult.”
The situation is no better for women in Nigeria. Gender inequality continues to limit opportunities for millions. According to a Lagos-based women’s rights advocate, Amaka Umeh, “Many women are trapped in poverty because they are denied access to education and financial independence. Even in workplaces, women earn less than men for the same job.”
Experts Say Inequality is Worsening
Experts argue that poverty in Nigeria is not just about economic deprivation but about structural inequalities. Dr. Samuel Adeoye, an economist at a Nigerian university, says, “The wealth gap is increasing. Government policies do not favour those low earners. Social services such as healthcare and education are underfunded, and this keeps people in poverty.”
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Another expert, Professor Grace Nwosu, highlights the role of bad governance. “Corruption and mismanagement are at the heart of Nigeria’s poverty crisis. Resources meant for the public are diverted by politicians and elites. If the government prioritises equitable policies, we will see real change.”
Nigerians Speak Out on Social Media
On social media, Nigerians continue to express their frustrations. A Twitter user, @EmekaWrites, posted, “Poverty in Nigeria is a system, not a condition. It is designed to keep the masses struggling while a few enjoy everything. Until we fix this, nothing will change.”
What Must Be Done to Reduce Poverty
The Nigerian government must take bold steps to address the real causes of poverty. Policies must focus on improving education, healthcare, and job opportunities. More funds should be allocated to social services to create a fairer system.
Taxing the wealthy and ensuring fair distribution of resources will help reduce the inequality gap. But beyond policies, there is a need for strong political will. As Professor Nwosu puts it, “Until those in power genuinely commit to policies that help the people whose income below the poverty threshold, poverty will remain a national crisis.”
Poverty in Nigeria goes beyond a lack of food and shelter. It is deeply connected to inequality, poor governance, and limited opportunities. As long as millions struggle daily while a few amass extreme wealth, Nigeria will continue to face a crisis. The government must take urgent action to address these issues, ensuring that prosperity is shared and not reserved for a privileged few.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
